Going green

PLANET FRIENDLY TRAVEL NEWS BY

Don’t let the name deter you. The Desolation Hotel in glorious Lake Tahoe, surrounded by the spectacular Sierra Nevada mountains, is anything but.

This luxurious property has 21 fabulous suites, all with outdoor hot tubs, and is built around existing pine trees with all wood sourced from nearby forests that are responsibly managed.

Some power comes via solar panels to help lessen the need for external energy. Food comes from local suppliers with most picked that morning.

Nature lovers, thrillseekers, or those who prefer more laid-back activities, will love it here. Just outside your door are adventures galore such as hiking, exploring the mountain bike trails and hitting the spectacular ski slopes. desolationhotel.com visitlaketahoe.com ■■Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives may be 10 years old but it puts its eco credentials front and centre.

The island, set in a large lagoon, has no cars – exploring is by a bamboo bicycle, electric buggy or boat – and you hand your shoes in on arrrival.

You’ll dine on a new plant-toplate menu sourced from the onsite organic garden or enjoy feasting at the chef’s table experience in the Gili Garden. Fish are sourced from fishermen who live on neighbouring islands.

The 45 overwater villas are sumptuously, yet stylishly rustic and a coral restoration project is under way monitored by the on-site marine biologist who will also oversee the new Eco-Centre currently under construction. gili-lankanfushi.com visitmaldives.com

Visit one of the spectacular gardens and parks cared for by the National Trust for free, as they turn into a kaleidoscope of autumn colour. Until November 30 admission is free for up

to two adults and four children at selected National Trust places with

a single use pass from nationaltrust.org.uk/features/

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